Carlos Queiroz has defended his choice to include Thomas Partey in his Ghana squad, which will face Wales on Tuesday.
The former Arsenal midfielder, now playing for Villarreal in Spain, faces seven counts of rape and one of sexual assault related to incidents in London between 2020 and 2022.
Partey denies all allegations, and a trial is scheduled for November this year, although it may be postponed until 2027.
Ghana manager Queiroz has included Partey in a provisional 28-man World Cup squad, and the 32-year-old could make his first appearance in the UK — in Cardiff — since his court appearance last September.
Queiroz, 73, explained his decision by stating, “It’s a straightforward answer. As far as I’m aware, in England, in Portugal, or anywhere else, we operate under the principle of presumption of innocence until the court reaches a verdict.”
He added, “Unfortunately, it’s not just about Thomas; the way social media and the press sometimes act with complete impunity leads to individuals being condemned before they have the chance to defend themselves.”
Ghana, featuring players like Manchester City forward Antoine Semenyo, Coventry striker Brandon Thomas-Asante, and Leicester’s Jordan Ayew, are drawn in the same World Cup group as England.
This match, marking the 150th anniversary of Welsh football, is the first time the Dragons will face African opposition at home. Ghana is eager to test themselves against British teams before they meet Thomas Tuchel’s side in Boston on June 23.
Queiroz expressed, “It’s an honor for us to be here and play against the Welsh national team. This match is vital for our World Cup preparation. Everything is on track according to our goals, and we are ready for the World Cup.”
“From my experience, when we play excellent football, we significantly increase our chances of winning. That is what we aim to do against Wales — to express ourselves on the field.”
Panama and Croatia will also join England and Ghana in World Cup Group L.
This report includes information from PA.